MA Illustration at Arts University Bournemouth

Programme overview

MA Illustration is a full-time course that bridges higher education and professional illustration practice, welcoming students from illustration, graphic design, animation, fine art, modelmaking, textiles and photography. Work can culminate in publication, exhibition or new hybrid platforms.

Faculty: Art, Design and Architecture | Study mode: full-time | Intake: September | Location: Poole, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

The course is structured around three consecutive 60-credit units (180 credits). The units are Reimagining Practices and Content, Navigating Audiences and Contexts, and Realising Professional Futures, with reflective journals alongside each unit and professional practice workshops on self-promotion, entrepreneurship, approaching clients and pricing work.

Career pathways

Strong emphasis on career planning to carve a niche in the global market for illustration; graduates can also progress to doctoral study.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Usually a BA (Hons) degree graded 2:1 or above, or an equivalent UK or international qualification, in the chosen subject or a related discipline. Applicants without the usual academic qualifications are considered where there is sufficient evidence of potential to achieve the standard of the final award; relevant work experience is welcomed. A portfolio is requested and applicants showing potential are interviewed. Applicants educated abroad or international students may be asked for proof of English language proficiency.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year (2026/27). Full-time home tuition fee for 2026/27 applicants; registration fee not included Source

International applicants: GBP 19,950 a year (2027/28). Full-time international/EU tuition fee for 2027/28 applicants; separate non-refundable GBP 500 registration fee not included Source

Intake: September

Apply through the official page: https://aub.ac.uk/graduate-courses/ma-illustration/how-to-apply

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